The East African Community (EAC) has reaffirmed its recognition of Somalia as a single sovereign state, calling for respect for its unity and territorial integrity.
In a statement issued on Monday from Arusha, the regional bloc said it aligns with the African Union’s position and urged all stakeholders to act within established regional and international legal frameworks.
“The East African Community notes and aligns with the position expressed by the African Union as reflected in the Constitutive Act of the African Union and relevant decisions concerning the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia,” the statement said.
The EAC said its recognition of Somalia is grounded in the legal framework governing the regional bloc.
“In accordance with the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community, the EAC recognises the Federal Republic of Somalia with its borders inherited at independence,” it stated.
The declaration reaffirmed the Community’s commitment to the principles of unity, sovereignty, and respect for internationally recognised borders among its member states.
By citing both the African Union’s Constitutive Act and the EAC Treaty, the bloc underscored the legal basis of its position.
The statement comes amid Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as an independent state, a move that the African Union has said lacks international legal recognition.
The EAC maintained that recognising breakaway regions would set destabilising precedents and undermine regional peace and stability.
The bloc said it supports dialogue within Somalia’s constitutional framework and urged all stakeholders to pursue their concerns through established regional and international legal processes rather than unilateral actions.
“The EAC calls for respect for the unity and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia,” the statement said, stressing the importance of adherence to established norms.
The regional body also urged restraint and compliance with international standards when addressing matters related to state sovereignty.
“The EAC urges all stakeholders to act within established regional and international legal frameworks relating to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states,” it added.
The statement reflects the EAC’s collective position on issues affecting peace, stability, and cooperation in the region.
By reaffirming Somalia’s status as a single sovereign state, the Community reiterated its support for internationally recognised boundaries and lawful governance structures.
